One Piece, a live-action TV series based on the popular Japanese manga franchise of the same name, is coming to Netflix on August 31. At the center of the pirate adventure is Mexican actor Iñaki Godoy who plays the main protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy.
In the series, Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, journey into the high seas to find a mythical treasure known as the “One Piece.” Legend has it that whoever finds the treasure will become the next Pirate King.
Godoy, a 19-year-old actor born in Mexico City, started working in TV and film in 2016. While he is fairly new to the industry, the lead role in One Piece will definitely make him a household name among fans of the franchise who tune in when the series debuts at the end of the summer.
“The straw hat pirates are here!” Godoy wrote on social media. “I’m so excited for this show, bringing this story to life has been an honor.”
So, who is Iñaki Godoy? Here are five things you should know about the One Piece star.
1
Born for the Spotlight
As a child, he studied acting, singing, and dancing at the Compañía Nacional de Teatro in Mexico City. He also did some stunt training, too, which will likely come in handy when he’s swashbuckling and fighting against enemy pirates in his new show. Godoy has wanted to be at the center stage from the very beginning.
2
Making a Start in Telenovelas
Godoy got his big break in the entertainment industry when he landed the role of Amadeo “El Gato” Duarte on the Spanish-language soap opera La querida del Centauro on Telemundo. From 2016 to 2017, he was featured in 128 episodes.
3
Established Netflix Relationship
One Piece will debut on Netflix on August 31. However, this isn’t the first time Godoy has been on a TV series on the streaming giant. He was also featured in 13 episodes of Who Killed Sara? In 2021 and in 10 episodes of The Imperfects in 2022. In The Imperfects, his character turns into the legendary chupacabra.
4
Supporting His Sister
Godoy is a big supporter of the Children’s Alopecia Project: Grupo México. His sister Mia has an autoimmune disorder, which causes hair loss. “I think that if more people knew about alopecia, maybe kids who have it wouldn’t feel so weird about it,” he said. “I think it’s great to support social causes. It can really change someone’s life just to feel heard and accepted.”
5
More Creative Outlets
Along with acting, Godoy considers visual art another one of his passions. He’s been painting since he was a child. Now that he’s part of One Piece, we’re wondering if he can draw any anime or manga characters.